Statement from Counseling Center staff
We, at the University of Washington Counseling Center, express our grief, sorrow, anger and compassion to all those who have been impacted by racial injustice that is occurring across our nation. These tragedies reflect a longstanding and entrenched history of structural and systemic injustice that we condemn and are dedicated to addressing. While these tragedies can be traumatizing for all of us, we recognize that they are especially injurious to members of our Black and African-American community. Our hearts are with the thousands of protestors who have marched on Seattle and throughout our country to denounce police brutality and bring awareness to the Black Lives Matter movement. Anti-blackness is a deeply rooted force of oppression in this country and dismantling systemic racism will require each of us to do our part. As a center we are committed to working internally and in connection with campus partners to address these issues.
As a mental health service, UWCC is committed to affirming and providing care for all of our students who have been directly or vicariously impacted by racial trauma. In the aftermath of experiencing or witnessing trauma, it is normal to experience a range of feelings and emotions, such as shock, fear, sadness, anger, helplessness or guilt. We encourage you to contact our office if you (or someone you know) would like support with coping and healing. Additionally, and in collaboration with the Ethnic Cultural Center, we are working on programming and resources to support our students and campus community. Please refer to our website and blog for more resources, including resources for Black students, students who identify as Non-Black People of Color, as well as White students.
We affirm the humanity of all Black and African-American communities, while also committing ourselves to anti-racist policies and practices. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you.
COVID-19 Update: The Counseling Center is providing all services via secure Zoom. Please call 206.543.1240 during regular business hours to access services.
The UW Counseling Center provides a safe, inclusive environment to help you explore the challenges of life and learning through:
- Counseling (individual, group, career and crisis)
- Consultation with faculty, staff and parents who have concerns about a student
- Workshops and invited presentations
These services are provided at no charge to currently-enrolled, degree-seeking UW students thanks to support by the Services and Activities Fee.
